At Lasell, our Connected Learning philosophy emphasizes real-world experience. Job shadowing provides an opportunity for a student to explore a career path or occupation. A student can also get a glimpse into the day-to-day duties and culture of a workplace. It also helps them build their resume and develop potential contacts within the Lasell community that may be helpful in the future. As a host, it’s an excellent opportunity for you to volunteer your time for a student at Lasell and further establish your connection to Lasell University.

It depends on the host and the type of industry/organization. Examples: taking a tour, conducting informational interviews with the host and co-workers of the host, sitting in on meetings, observing work being performed, assisting with tasks and actual projects (e.g., conduct research, write reports, etc.).

You should expect the student to arrive on time and be dressed appropriately for the day. The student is also expected to ask questions and be engaged.

The Job Shadowing Program is open to all students from all majors and class years. Therefore, students who apply may not have the relevant experience yet. You can expect that they will have researched the industry/organization ahead of time but be prepared to teach them more about the field.

You are expected to give a detailed overview of your profession, industry and/or organization, provide a tour of the workplace, and answer questions from the student. You are also expected to offer opportunities for the student to observe your daily routine (e.g., sitting in on a meeting, watching you interact with a client, etc.).

You must agree to host a student for at least one day (minimum of six hours). However, some hosts choose to host a student for two days if they feel like it will give the student better views of their role. In most situations, one day will be sufficient.

Although it is a nice gesture if you can provide lunch, it is not required. However, it would be helpful for the student to know if they should bring their own lunch, drinks, or snacks, and if there is proper storing for those items available to them.

Due to a variety of factors, including interest level, location, and the selection process, a match is not guaranteed. However, if you are not matched with a student, there are many other valuable ways that you can help students with their career readiness. For more information, please contact Jessi Orlando at jorlando@lasell.edu.

Hosts will complete the online registration form, which includes completing a short interview with the Center for Career Readiness and Internship Programs to learn more about you and to answer your questions.

Students will also apply for the program by sending their resume and a statement of interest to the Center for Career Readiness and Internship Programs before the spring deadline. The Center for Career Readiness and Internship Programs will reach out to you directly to confirm your match and for you to accept the match.

If only one student applies for a particular experience and you accept that student, the student will be notified and will contact you to schedule a specific shadowing date. If more than one student applies for an experience, you will determine how many and which students you are willing to take. Students can apply for up to two shadowing opportunities.